Pancreatic cancer advocate Lisa Niemi Swayze graces the cover of our winter issue, which also features articles devoted to colon cancer, melanoma research and treatment, and chronic pain. In addition, wellness content in this issue includes articles on trail running, swimming, nutrition, and spiritual topics.

Features

I love you, I love you not Understanding our fickle relationship with food By Mia James

Advances in Melanoma Treatment and Research After almost 20 years, new treatments emerge. By Mia James

Progress Provides HOPE New surgical techniques help treat advanced-stage colon cancer. By Jeff Samoray

Lessons in Life and Love Lisa Niemi Swayze reflects on her journey as a caregiver and shares her hopes as an advocate. By Diana Price

The Chronic Pain Problem Millions of Americans are affected by debilitating chronic pain, and diagnosis and treatment remain a challenge. By Laurie Wertich

Body Wise

Nutrition and Exercise

Cool That Inflammation Discussions related to inflammation in the body and its role in chronic disease have been increasingly popular in health news. By Paulette Lambert, RD, CDE

Restoring Your Body after Breast Cancer In my movement, fitness, and yoga classes, I often meet students who have heard the fateful words, “You have breast cancer.” By Lisa Gulotta

Swimming Spirit Women who return to the pool as adults reflect on the emotional and physical benefits of the sport. By Diana Price

Take to the Trails Trail running is a fast-growing sport that offers women fitness, stress relief, and community. By Diana Price

body wise the more you know -6 Reasons to Skip Your Workout -Avoid Anemia -Obesity Increases Risk of Early Death in Women -Eat Out without the Extra Calories

The War Room

Living and Thriving with Cancer

You’ve Been Diagnosed with Cancer. Now What? Research your diagnosis and available treatment options to ensure that you get the best possible care. By Susan Kreimer

When Does Survivor Status Start? The latest data available from the National Cancer Institute tells us that there are almost 12 million cancer survivors in the United States. By Melanie Bone, MD, PA

Spirit House

Tending to the Soul

Nature Is Nurturing Spending time in nature is critical to overall health and well-being. By Ann Bloom

Managing Change In preparing to write about managing change, a favorite John Lennon quote comes to mind: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” By Denise King Gillingham, MSW, CPCC

5 Tips to Help You Find Serenity Stressed out? Feeling stretched with too much to do? Want to just escape from your life for a bit to a faraway island for some peace and serenity? By Mallika Chopra

Cheering for a Cure What do you get when you bring 136 former National Football League (NFL) cheerleaders, a whole bunch of pink pom-poms, and a large dose of dance talent together to fight breast cancer—and then post the result on YouTube? By Diana Price

Showing Love in the Face of Loss When reacting to a friend’s loss, lead with your heart. By Vicky Bates

Nowhere Hair A new book for children and families provides a valuable tool for talking about cancer—and it’s a good read. By Diana Price

Look Good…Feel Better® Feeling Better From The Inside Out Celebrity Hairstylist David Babaii provides hair and wig tips to women undergoing cancer treatment

Spirit House The More You Know -Don’t Worry, Be Happy, Live Long -How to Live in the Present Moment -Goal Setting

Every Woman’s Health

Health Issues Facing Women at Home and Around the World

Make an Annual Commitment to Your Health Make sure your women’s health annual visit includes all the essential components. By Alexandra F. Gehring, FNP

Just Say No . . . to Indoor Tanning What are the dangers of indoor tanning? By Jane M. Grant-Kels, MD

Find Your Way

Taking the Mystery out of the Medical System

The Hospital Visit Guidelines and suggestions for patients and loved ones spending time in the hospital. By Kathy Gurland, LCSW and Cancer Navigation Specialist

Ask The Doctor What is urinary incontinence? By Susan A. Hobson MD, PhD